Shibuya in November 2024: Highlights, Events & Festivals
November in Tokyo is a time when autumn deepens, with average temperatures ranging from 10°C to 17°C, making it an ideal season for sightseeing and shopping. The trees in the city begin to change color, creating a beautiful backdrop for exploring the vibrant streets.
Shibuya, a major hub for youth culture, fashion, and entertainment, becomes even more lively in November. The area hosts a variety of music events, art festivals, and illuminations that brighten the city, especially toward mid-November when Christmas decorations start appearing. In this article, we will highlight some of the key events in Shibuya during November 2024, along with dates and access information.
Table of Contents
- Unique November Experiences in Shibuya
- Shibuya's Seasonal Events in November
- Shibuya November 2024 Gourmet Events
Unique November Experiences in Shibuya
Furusato Shibuya Festival
Source: Official website
The "Furusato Shibuya Festival", held on the first Saturday and Sunday of November at "Yoyogi Park" is Shibuya's largest event. It brings together local residents and those who love Shibuya, celebrating the area’s cultural richness. The festival also aims to connect with both local and international communities, showcasing Shibuya’s appeal to the world.
Various embassies and municipalities from Japan and abroad participate, presenting traditional performances, music, and local specialties. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of cultural experiences, including food stalls, live performances, and activities for families, making this a must-visit event to discover the essence of Shibuya.
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- Date: November 4-5, 2024
- Access:
- Yoyogi Park Station (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line): 3-minute walk
- Meiji-jingumae Station (Chiyoda/Fukutoshin Line): 3-minute walk
- Yoyogi-Hachiman Station (Odakyu Line): 6-minute walk
- Admission: Free
- Website: https://www.shibuya-fes.online/
Sarugaku Matsuri
Source: Official website
Held annually in "Daikanyama", the "Sarugaku Matsuri" is a cherished autumn tradition for locals and visitors alike. This year marks the festival's 20th anniversary, with a special focus on disaster preparedness (Bousai). The event promotes community engagement and resilience in the face of emergencies.
At the "Sarugaku Market", visitors can browse through a variety of handcrafted goods and artisanal products, while the "Food Forum" offers delicious seasonal dishes from well-known Daikanyama restaurants. The event also features performances, workshops, and activities for all ages, making it a wonderful opportunity to experience Japanese community spirit.
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- Date: November 2-3, 2024
- Access:
- Daikanyama Station (Tokyu Toyoko Line): 3-minute walk
- Nakameguro Station (Tokyu Toyoko Line, Hibiya Line): 7-minute walk
- Ebisu Station (JR Yamanote Line, Saikyo Line, Hibiya Line): 10-minute walk
- Admission:Free
- Website: https://sarugakumatsuri.com/
Shibuya StreetDance Week
Source: ART COUNCIL TOKYO
"Shibuya StreetDance Week" is Japan’s largest street dance event, held in Shibuya, a mecca for street dancers. Professional dancers from across the country gather to showcase their talents, filling the streets of Shibuya with vibrant energy.
The event includes dance battles, contests, and stage performances, as well as workshops for beginners and families. Whether you're a dance enthusiast or just looking for entertainment, this festival offers an exciting cultural experience in the heart of Shibuya.
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- Date: November 23, 2024
- Access:
- Harajuku Station (JR Yamanote Line): 9-minute walk
- Shibuya Station (JR Yamanote Line): 13-minute walk
- Yoyogi Park Station (Chiyoda Line): 11-minute walk
- Yoyogi-Hachiman Station (Odakyu Line): 13-minute walk
- Admission: Free
- Website: https://streetdanceweek.jp/
Star Wars / Join the Dark Side
Source: Official website
The “Star Wars / Join the Dark Side” event is a special exhibition ahead of the 2025 “Star Wars Celebration Japan.” This event focuses on characters from the Dark Side, showcasing costumes of Darth Vader and Kylo Ren that were used in actual movie productions. Additionally, diorama works from the world-renowned miniature photographer Tanaka Tatsuya will be displayed.
You can also purchase limited edition merchandise and 1/6 scale figurines exclusive to the event. This is an incredible opportunity for Star Wars fans to immerse themselves in the dark side of the force.
Don't miss out on this unique chance to experience the magic of Star Wars right here in Japan.
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- Dates: October 12, 2024 - December 15, 2024
- Access:
- Harajuku Station East Exit: 9 minutes walk
- Shibuya Station B1 Exit: 5 minutes walk
- Meiji Jingu-mae Station Exit 7: 4 minutes walk
Admission: Free
website:https://hottoys-store.jp/starwars/index.html?ref=magical-trip-media.ghost.io
Shibuya's Seasonal Events in November
Autumn Foliage
When you visit Shibuya in November, you’ll be able to enjoy the unique experience of autumn foliage in the middle of the bustling city. Autumn leaves, or *koyo*, are a traditional symbol of the season, and Shibuya’s parks and nearby areas offer stunning views of vibrant reds and yellows.
The balance between Shibuya’s urban energy and the tranquility of autumn scenery provides a refreshing experience, ideal for leisurely walks or capturing the beautiful scenes in photos.
Ginkgo Avenue at Meiji Jingu Gaien
Source: Go Tokyo
The Ginkgo Avenue at Meiji Jingu Gaien is a symbolic autumn landscape in Tokyo. The 300-meter long avenue of ginkgo trees starts turning yellow in mid-November and peaks by late November, transforming into a golden tunnel of leaves. Once the leaves begin to fall, the ground is beautifully covered in a yellow carpet, creating a magical atmosphere.
This avenue, which blends seasonal beauty with the urban setting, is a popular spot and is often featured in TV dramas and commercials. Visitors can experience the harmony between nature and the city's vibrant life.
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- Dates: Mid-November to early December
- Access:
- Aoyama-itchome Station Exit 1: 6 minutes walk
- Gaienmae Station Exit 4a: 3 minutes walk
- Shinanomachi Station: 9 minutes walk
- Kokuritsu-Kyogijo Station Exit A1: 10 minutes walk
- Admission: Free
- Website: http://www.meijijingugaien.jp/walk/sight/season.html
Yoyogi Park
Yoyogi Park is an urban oasis, offering visitors a tranquil escape into nature despite being located in the heart of Tokyo. With around 1,300 trees, including keyaki (zelkova), ginkgo, and maple, the park transforms into a breathtaking display of autumn colors during November. The contrast between the fiery reds of the keyaki and the bright yellows of the ginkgo trees creates a stunning visual experience.
Cycling through the park's autumn scenery is also highly recommended, or simply enjoying a relaxing walk among the leaves. Yoyogi Park is a beloved spot by locals and offers a peaceful retreat where you can fully appreciate the beauty of fall.
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- Dates: Late November to early December
- Access:
- Harajuku Station: 3 minutes walk
- Yoyogi Park Station: 3 minutes walk
- Meiji Jingu-mae Station: 3 minutes walk
- Yoyogi-Hachiman Station: 6 minutes walk
- Admission: Free
- Website: https://www.tokyo-park.or.jp/park/yoyogi/
Omotesando
Omotesando is a must-visit area in Tokyo, offering a unique experience. The iconic zelkova tree-lined avenue stretches for about 900 meters, creating a beautiful landscape that changes with the seasons. In autumn, the trees are bathed in vibrant shades of yellow and red, creating a striking contrast with the high-end shops and restaurants that line the street.
My recommended spot in Omotesando is the Nezu Museum. Despite being located in the city center, this museum offers a tranquil escape. The expansive Japanese garden on the grounds becomes especially picturesque in autumn, with the vibrant foliage providing a stunning backdrop. It's a perfect place to enjoy art exhibitions and peaceful walks in nature.
Visiting the museum and strolling through the garden will provide a calming, restorative experience. Step away from the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in this blend of nature and art.
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- Date: Early to late November
- Access:
- Tokyo Metro Ginza Line, Chiyoda Line, Hanzomon Line “Omotesando - Station” Exit A2 (immediately nearby)
- Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line, Fukutoshin Line “Meiji-Jingumae (Harajuku) Station” Exit 5 (immediately nearby)
- JR Yamanote Line “Harajuku Station” Omotesando Exit (immediately nearby)
- Admission: Free
Shibuya November 2024 Gourmet Events
Fiesta de España
Source: Official website
Fiesta de España is a special event where you can immerse yourself in Spanish culture from various angles.
Visitors can enjoy the passion of Spain through its famous cuisine, dance, and music. Flamenco dances and live guitar performances captivate audiences with their energetic and dynamic performances.
There are also Spanish language seminars and art workshops suitable for children, making this a family-friendly event. These unique experiences highlight the charm of Spanish culture in Japan.
In addition, you can savor Spanish cuisine such as paella, allowing you to experience the culture and history of Spain through food. It's a chance to enjoy both taste and emotion, offering a unique experience for everyone.
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- Date: November 16-17, 2024
- Access:
- 9 minutes from JR Yamanote Line Harajuku Station (Tokyo Metro Meiji-Jingumae Station)
- 13 minutes from JR Yamanote Line Shibuya Station
- 11 minutes from Chiyoda Line Yoyogi Park Station
- 13 minutes from Odakyu Line Yoyogi-Hachiman Station
- Admission: Free
- Website: https://spainfes.com/
Cheese Festa
Source: Official website
Cheese Festa is Japan’s largest cheese event, held every year to celebrate “Cheese Day” on November 11.
This year’s theme is “Which is your favorite? A world of unique cheeses.” The tasting booths offer a variety of cheeses from Japan and around the world, paired with autumn flavors. You can also try rare and exclusive cheeses not usually available in stores.
Additionally, the event introduces new ways to enjoy cheese and shares autumn-inspired recipes. From creative seasonal dishes to innovative ways to savor cheese, you’ll discover the potential of this beloved food.
There’s also an award ceremony for the Cheese Recipe Contest, showcasing unique cheese-based dishes. This event is a must for cheese lovers, offering an indulgent combination of taste and creativity.
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- Date: November 10-11, 2024
- Access:
- 3 minutes from JR “Ebisu Station” East Exit
- 4 minutes from Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line “Ebisu Station” Exit 1
- Admission: Free
- Website: https://www.cheesefesta.com/